Since 1992, SLN has helped New Caledonians to carry out their projects with Les Nickels de l’Initiative. In 2013 the sponsorship programme rewarded 14 winners with financial support in bringing their ideas to life.
For the 21st Nickels de l’Initiative, almost 80 applications were examined by a jury comprised of SLN representatives and external personalities. It deliberated in the autumn and selected 14 projects in the following four categories:
- environment (5 projects),
- culture (4 projects),
- sports (3 projects),
- solidarity (2 projects).
The 14 winners accepted their awards on November 29th, 2013 at the New Caledonia museum in Nouméa. This cultural venue was chosen deliberately as the museum is the home for several pieces in the ERAMET and SLN-sponsored exhibition “KANAK, l’Art est une Parole”. Attended by a hundred or so guests, the ceremony was full of emotion, thanks in particular to the award winners’ contributions (football skills demonstration, singing, etc.).
Since 1992, 224 initiatives have been supported by Les Nickels de l’Initiative for a total of CFP 105 million (approx. €900,000) in sponsorship. SLN is determined to support initiative, play a part in the life of a country where it has operated for over 130 years, and forge bands with its inhabitants.
